Care in focus with Operation Smile's volunteer photographers
Patient imaging technicians don’t just document patients’ inspiring ‘before and after’ stories – they also help us improve the cleft care we provide.
Every smile tells a story – but we can only tell these stories thanks to Operation Smile’s volunteer photographers. These amazing people give their time and expertise to capture powerful patient photos before and after cleft lip and palate surgeries.
The images created by each patient imaging technician (PIT) not only document the life-changing difference of a cleft repair, they also help guide the medical care each child receives. Surgeons rely on images to prepare for surgery, educators use them to train medical teams, and now these images are helping to advance artificial intelligence that will improve global cleft care, thanks to a partnership between Operation Smile and Microsoft.
Read on to explore the vital role of PITs, seen through the lens of three long-serving volunteers.
Patient Imaging Technicians capture the essence of what we do – the joy, the transformation and the hope that every surgery brings. Their work doesn’t just document change; it helps drive change.
Ayo Adeniyi, Director of Patient Data and Medical Records
Magogodi (Dee) Dingalo, South Africa
Dee has volunteered in over 25 surgical programmes, including Women in Medicine initiatives in Malawi and the Philippines.
Working with Operation Smile: As a filmmaker and photographer, I understand how powerful images can be. But being a PIT is different. It’s not just about taking a picture, it’s about making someone feel seen, respected and comfortable. Many of our patients have spent their lives being stared at for their cleft condition. I want them to feel safe in front of my camera, knowing this is the last time they’ll be photographed with a cleft lip.
Capturing the most significant moments in people’s lives has kept my enthusiasm alive. The real reward is seeing patients return a year later, confident and radiant.
Dee Dingalo
Jaime Pavon, United States
Jaime’s passion for photography has led him to work in fashion and advertising, but he always makes time for Operation Smile.
Working with Operation Smile: My journey began as a photo journalist covering a local surgical programme in Riobamba, Ecuador. But I quickly realised this wasn’t just another story – it was life-changing. Seeing a child’s brand-new smile for the first time and knowing their future had transformed was unforgettable. That’s why, 18 years later, I’m still here.
Favourite image: One of my favourite images is of four newborns lying together peacefully before their surgeries. It’s a beautiful shot, but what really gets me is the story behind it. They had no idea their lives were about to change forever. That mix of innocence and unspoken bravery still makes my heart shrink every time I think about it. It’s moments like these that remind me why I do what I do. Some stories can’t be fully told in words, but a single image can capture them forever.
See Jaime’s work at pavon.photo or follow him on Instagram at @pavonphoto
Being a PIT has reinforced my belief that photography isn’t just about creating beautiful images – it’s about storytelling, human connection and impact.
Jamie Pavon
Ahmed Ebrahim, Egypt
For Ahmed, photography isn’t just a profession – it’s a way to give back.
Working with Operation Smile: Volunteering has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I still remember my first surgical programme in Cairo in 2008. From that moment, I knew I was part of something bigger than myself. One of the most emotional moments was in Ghana in 2016, when we visited patients after surgery. They were so overjoyed, hugging us with gratitude. I had to fight back tears. These moments remind me why I do this work.
Follow Ahmed’s work on Instagram: @ahmedebrahim.k
Being a PIT has shaped my career and my perspective on life. It has taught me the true power of images.
Ahmed Ebrahim
See the full picture
Thank you to our patient imaging technicians and all Operation Smile volunteers for helping us transform the lives of children and communities around the globe.
To see more photos of our work in action – including many taken by our PITs – follow us on Instagram.